Tottenham v Arsenal preview

Tottenham boss Andre Villas-Boas is unlikely to tweak too much
given their recent run of form, with all eyes set to be on Gareth
Bale once again when Spurs play host to North London neighbours
Arsenal.

The Welsh winger has netted eight times in his last six
appearances – including a number of spectacular strikes – and
Arsenal must find a way of keeping him quiet if they are to shackle
Spurs.

Clint Dempsey remains about a week away from a return to fitness
as he continues to nurse a calf complaint.

Jermain Defoe remains sidelined with a foot injury, meaning
Emmanuel Adebayor will continue to lead the line, while Tom
Huddlestone (knee) is also on the treatment table.

Arsenal will be without defender Bacary Sagna for their short
trip to White Hart Lane.

The French full-back is struggling with a knee injury and has
been ruled out of contention by Arsene Wenger.

The Gunners boss may, however, welcome Abou Diaby into his ranks
on Saturday, with the midfielder rated at 50-50 to shake off a calf
problem.

Left-back Kieran Gibbs is out with a thigh injury, but Laurent
Koscielny and Lukas Podolski are pushing hard for recalls after
finding themselves on the bench for last weekend’s home date with
Aston Villa.